IN CONVERSATION WITH: INTERIOR DESIGNER,
SOPHIE RASTRICK_
At home with A.LONDON May 2024
Our studio are very prideful of our wonderful team, who work together to enrich our portfolio year after year, creating projects across the city that represent undefeated creativity and determined ethos here at A.LONDON.
Sophie Rastrick has been a part of the A.LONDON team since 2022, working across a plethora of our successful London projects. After her first ‘In Conversation With’ back when she was here as an Interior Design Intern, we are re-introducing Sophie, as she explains what a typical day for her looks like in her new role as Interior Designer.
Read on to learn more about Sophie, her design background, her favourite project she has been a part of, and what truly inspires an interior designer of this day and age…
Hi Sophie! Tell us a little more about your background in the industry…
I began my journey in interior design by completing a course at the British Academy of Interior Design. Having completed the course I started as an intern at AGC, where I learned and grew with the help of a talented team. Now, working as a mid-weight designer at the Accouter Group, I continue to apply the knowledge and skills I gained from both my education and my internship. It's a fulfilling journey where I get to contribute my creativity and expertise to exciting projects.
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
A typical day for me as an interior designer involves a balance of creative work, client interaction, project coordination, and administrative tasks, all aimed at bringing design visions to life and ensuring the success of projects for all our clients. Each phase of my work week are all integral to my personal and career development as a designer. Ever since joining A.LONDON back in 2022, my experience has built up incredibly, and I am using all the lessons learnt to put towards creating some pretty special projects!
Could you describe a project you are particularly proud of so far, and what made it successful from your point of view?
The Marylebone Mansions project stands out as a source of pride for myself and the team due to its successful completion and the positive reception it received in the market. Collaborating with CBRE and JLL, we had the opportunity to design three show home schemes located in the heart of Marylebone. I particularly loved working on Apartment 15, which featured a gorgeous vibrant orange headboard as a stand-out piece in the principle bedroom. This feature was a testament to the bold and innovative approach of the design team. You can watch as I talk through some of the key elements of this apartment in this video here.
What are some of your favourite design styles or periods, and how do they influence your work?
I love incorporating traditional touches with contemporary minimalism within my interior design schemes. Blending classic touches with modern minimalism creates a unique and harmonious aesthetic, merging simplicity with warmth through textures and colours.
Integrating elements like wood, stone, and earthy tones alongside clean lines and neutral palettes create spaces that feel timeless, inviting, and visually captivating - which I love to feature within my work.
What does sourcing art mean to you within your designs?
At A.LONDON we love collaborating with local artisans to our projects. By involving artisans from the local community in the design phase, we not only support the local economy but also gain valuable insights into the culture, heritage, and craftsmanship of the area.
Seamlessly blending these elements into the interior design creates spaces that feel rooted in their environment, showcasing the area's unique character and identity, as well as representing the desired style of the clientele.
What is your favourite part of working at A.LONDON, and what should we be looking out for from the studio?
Working for A.LONDON has so many great benefits that I am so grateful for as a designer. At A.LONDON, we thrive in an environment that champions creativity, elegance, and innovation in every project we undertake. Being part of this team offers a unique opportunity to work alongside some of the most talented minds in the industry, where each designer is encouraged to bring their visionary ideas to life.
I also love that as a studio we are committed to our sustainability journey, ensuring that our designs not only meet the highest standards of luxury but also incorporate eco-friendly practices.
Our collaborative atmosphere fosters growth and learning, making A.LONDON not just a workplace, but a hub where creative ambitions are realised in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
We have some very exciting project in the pipeline at A.LONDON - it's truly a thrilling time ahead and we cannot wait to share our latest adventures with you…
Get to know Sophie a little more…
What are your top 3 restaurants in London and why?
Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecote – Marylebone:
A Parisian favourite of mine. I love that it has a home in London, the walk-in policy means it’s always an option just wrap up warm and queue with good company!
Ixchel:
I have recently visited this new Mexican restaurant in Chelsea, and I was a huge fan. It may be one of my new favourites. Tacos, tequila and a fab atmosphere - I highly recommend for a girls night or date night!
Oka Chelsea:
Since moving to London I have lost count of how many times I have been here. Nestled on Kings Road, the ambiance in here is always lovely. From traditional Asian dishes to more contemporary cuisine, there is something for everyone. You will leave dreaming of the bang bang cauliflower!
Where would your dream interior project be?
My dream interior project would be a Villa in Mallorca. The island holds a very special place in my heart, and I would love to create spaces that encapsulates its essence. A perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, relaxation, luxury, and indoor-outdoor living, it would be the perfect retreat!
If you could take 3 things on a desert island, what would they be?
Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream (life saver)
A lighter (classic answer)
A Sarah J Maas book!
Where is your favourite hotel in the world, and has it inspired
your designs?
Cap Rocat in Mallorca – not only is this hotel located in my favourite place in the world, but it is also housed within a meticulously restored military fortress dating back to the 19th century. It has the most beautiful architecture, and exudes elegance and timeless beauty - making it the perfect relaxing retreat. The hotel combines architectural details, antique furnishings, and rich, luxurious fabrics. Combining architectural details and history will always create timeless design and is something I aim to create within my own schemes.
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in the industry?
Learning from your mistakes is invaluable. Embrace every opportunity to refine your skills and grow professionally. Remember that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for growth. Continuously seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Whether it's experimenting with different techniques, attending workshops and CPD’s sessions or working with lots of different designers, embrace every chance to learn and grow.
Contact the A.LONDON team today
You can find Sophie, and the rest of the A.LONDON team at our London Studio at Mortimer House, 37-41 Mortimer Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 3JH.